2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class carried forward the stunning design introduced in the 2021 model, maintaining its reputation for elegance and sophistication. Despite the growing popularity of SUVs, the S-Class stood as a testament to the enduring appeal of luxury sedans. Its sleek exterior, characterized by a long distance between the front axle and dashboard, exuded elegance and modernity. The interior was equally impressive, featuring high-quality materials and a distinctive dashboard design with a 12.8-inch touchscreen and a separate 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, offering a blend of tradition and innovation.

In contrast, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class continued the seventh generation's legacy with a focus on electrification, introducing the S 580e plug-in hybrid. While the exterior retained the clean lines and sculpted front end, optional features like high-gloss black trim and AMG-style elements added a touch of sportiness. Inside, the cabin offered a plethora of customization options, including 15 leather upholstery colours and five trim materials. The panoramic sunroof and superb fit and finish enhanced the luxurious experience, while the soft headrests provided unmatched comfort for passengers.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class offered a choice between the S500 and S580 models, both equipped with the EQ Boost system. The S500 featured a 3.0-litre inline-six-cylinder engine, delivering 429 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque, with an additional 21 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque from the electric motor. The S580, with its twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8, matched the EQ Boost system for enhanced performance. Both models boasted a nine-speed automatic transmission and 4Matic AWD, achieving 0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds for the S500 and 4.4 seconds for the S580. Despite their weight, the S-Class models offered smooth handling and powerful braking, making them suitable for both business and pleasure.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, particularly the S 580e, embraced electrification with a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six engine paired with a 28.6-kWh battery and electric motor. This setup provided 510 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque, matching the S580's performance with a 0-100 km/h time of 4.4 seconds. The S 580e offered an impressive 90 km of all-electric range and a combined fuel efficiency rating of 4.4 Le/100 km. The nine-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel steering enhanced the driving experience, while the buttery soft air suspension ensured a comfortable ride. The hybrid mode seamlessly transitioned between electric and gas power, although a slight jerk was noted when downshifting to first gear.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class excelled as an executive sedan, offering a spacious and comfortable cabin with a 510-litre trunk for ample storage. Passengers enjoyed features like powered sun blinds, a Panorama Sunroof, and multiple USB-C ports. The front seats provided rapid-heating, active multicontour support, and optional upgrades like ventilated seats and massaging functions. The Executive Rear Seating package, exclusive to the S580, catered to chauffeured passengers with luxurious amenities. However, the wide-opening doors posed a challenge for some occupants, though the soft-close feature mitigated this issue.

In the 2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, luxury was taken to new heights with standard features like massaging, heated, and ventilated seats, along with a heated steering wheel and armrests. The cabin boasted power sunshades, soft-closing doors, and 64-colour ambient lighting. The Energizing Comfort wellness program combined various elements to enhance the driving experience, though its effectiveness was subjective. While the trunk space was limited to 350 litres in the S 580e, the standard S-Class offered 550 litres. For those seeking more cargo capacity, alternatives like the Porsche Panamera plug-in hybrid or luxury SUVs were recommended.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class showcased cutting-edge technology with a 12.8-inch OLED touchscreen and the latest MBUX infotainment system. The OLED screen offered superior image quality and energy efficiency, complemented by wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 12.3-inch LED virtual instrument panel provided customizable themes, and the optional 3D instrument cluster added depth to the display. Augmented video for navigation and the available augmented reality head-up display enhanced the driving experience. The Burmester 3D Surround sound system delivered high-fidelity audio, with an optional 4D system for an immersive experience. The EQ Boost system and rear-axle steering further improved performance and maneuverability.

In the 2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, the 12.8-inch OLED touchscreen remained a highlight, featuring the latest MBUX system with a map-centric home screen. The natural-language AI assistant responded to voice commands, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were included. The augmented reality navigation system provided clear guidance, while the optional head-up display offered additional information. However, the stoplight view feature was deemed unnecessary. The standard Burmester sound system catered to audiophiles, and wireless charging and USB-C ports ensured connectivity.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class prioritized safety with a comprehensive suite of standard and available features. Magic Vision Control optimized windshield spray, while driver assistance systems like active distance assist, active steering assist, and active brake assist enhanced safety. The Pre-Safe systems prepared the vehicle for imminent collisions, and car-to-x communication shared road condition warnings. Rear-passenger airbags and rear-seat belt bags were available for added protection.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class offered an extensive array of ADAS features, including lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. The hands-on highway driver-assist system utilized adaptive cruise control and lane-centering technology. Crosswind Assist and Speed Limit Assist further enhanced safety. However, rear cross-traffic alert was an extra-cost option in Canada. Crash test ratings from NHTSA and IIHS were not available for the 2023 model.